Stolen cattle, horses, or exotic livestock during a single transaction and having an aggregate value of less than $150,000 will be what level of offense?

• A. State Jail Felony
• B. Capital Felony
• C. 2nd Degree Felony
• D. 3rd Degree Felony

Answer: (D)

In Texas, theft of livestock (cattle, horses, or exotic livestock) is treated with its own value-based scale, separate from ordinary property theft. The degree of the offense depends on the total value involved in a single transaction. If that aggregate value is under 150,000, the offense is a third-degree felony. This recognizes the serious harm of stealing livestock, while still placing it below higher levels that apply when the value crosses the threshold. The other levels don’t fit this scenario because capital felonies are reserved for the most serious crimes (like certain murders), and state jail or higher-degree felonies apply at different value ranges that aren’t reached here. So when the value is under 150,000, the proper classification is a third-degree felony.